As part of World Retina Week, which runs from September 23rd to 29th, the focus is on the critical importance of timely detection of retinal diseases, many of which can develop unnoticed.
The retina, which is light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, is responsible for converting light into visible images. Unlike skin, bones, or muscles, damaged retina cannot self-repair or regenerate, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis to prevent irreversible vision loss.
Globally, retinal disorders remain a significant factor in vision impairment. According to available information, in Sub-Saharan African clinics, conditions such as diabetic eye disease, retinal detachment, and macular degeneration account for over 60% of all specialized retinal diagnoses.
In South Africa, diabetic retinopathy ranks fourth among causes of blindness after cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Clinical screening data and regional health studies in South Africa show that up to 40% of people with diabetes have detectable diabetic retinopathy.
In many cases, this condition is identified through proactive digital screening even before patients notice any changes in their vision. Since retinal problems can progress slowly over months or years without obvious signs, by the time symptoms appear, such as blurred vision, dark spots, or distorted images, opportunities for early intervention may be missed.
Optometrist Eela Makan from Spec-Savers South Africa advises people not to wait for noticeable changes in vision before seeing a doctor. She notes that because the retina has no pain receptors and may not show obvious signs of distress in the early stages, regular eye exams help detect subtle changes before they affect daily vision.
Makan also mentioned that advancements in digital diagnostics have changed the role of eye examinations, as retinal imaging allows specialists to examine the back of the eye in detail. This non-invasive imaging method helps detect microscopic vascular changes associated with hypertension, diabetes, and age-related decline.
As World Retina Week continues, the focus remains on prevention and early detection. Annual eye exams, including digital retinal imaging, are especially important for individuals living with diabetes or hypertension, as well as for those with a family history of eye diseases.